By Duncan Mnisi
The South African government has raised alarms over the recent deportation of a group of convicted criminals from the United States to Eswatini, citing fears about potential security risks and the implications for regional stability.
According to official statements, US authorities deported five men, describing them as “barbaric” due to their criminal backgrounds, which include child rape, murder, assault, and robbery.
These individuals originate from various countries, including Laos, Cuba, Jamaica, Vietnam, and Yemen.
Notably, efforts to deport them to their respective home countries were rejected, prompting the US to transfer them to Eswatini.
While respecting Eswatini’s sovereignty, the South African government has expressed deep concern over the profiles of these individuals and the possible repercussions for regional security and immigration policies.
Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, confirmed that the government is closely monitoring the situation.
“Our concern is rooted in the potential adverse impact on South Africa’s national security and immigration policies, especially given the proximity between our countries,” Phiri stated.
He added that the government is aware of Eswatini’s cooperation with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to facilitate the transit of these inmates back to their countries of origin.
The decision to transfer these convicted criminals to Eswatini has sparked a wave of reactions among citizens, many of whom question the wisdom and morality of the move.
One anonymous resident voiced skepticism:
“Where exactly were they deported from? Does the US have the right to impose deportees on another country? You can’t just transfer a problem to someone else. It’s unwise and inconsiderate. And why would Eswatini accept this? It doesn’t add up.”
Another local expressed suspicion about the intentions behind the deportations:
“Their home countries rejected them, yet Eswatini takes them? It feels like a deliberate move to destabilise South Africa, similar to what Cuba was accused of doing to the US. This doesn’t seem like a coincidence.”
Critics argue that such deportations could pose serious risks to regional security, especially if dangerous offenders are simply relocated without proper assessment or support.
The situation has also reignited debates about the responsibilities of countries in handling convicted criminals and the potential consequences of cross-border deportations.
As South Africa grapples with these concerns, officials emphasize the importance of regional cooperation and thorough vetting processes to prevent the influx of dangerous individuals.
The government has called for greater transparency and international collaboration to ensure that such deportations do not undermine regional stability or public safety.
For now, the public remains watchful, hoping that regional authorities will manage the situation carefully to prevent any adverse effects on their communities.
